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From http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_778467.html
Protesters parachute from Nelson's Column
A man has parachuted off Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square in a protest stunt.
The stunt was organised by the Act For Tibet organisation, a group that protests against the Chinese occupation of Tibet.
Professional stuntsman, Gary Connery, along with three fellow activists climbed the 170ft statue unharnessed.
The four men then unfurled a 15-yard photo of the Dalai Lama - the spiritual and political leader of the Tibetan people.
Act for Tibet members refused to reveal the names of the three other climbers.
The three remaining activists at the top of Nelson's Column then abseiled down, taking the picture of the Dalai Lama with them.
Speaking after the stunt, Connery said he carried out the jump "for a good cause."
Isabel Lowsada, a spokesman for Act for Tibet, said: "We apologise if the action inconvenienced the police in any way. All four men are trained climbers and are very experienced."
She added: "For 50 years the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people have been subjected to the occupation of their country. Why don't governments support the Dalai Lama and his people? Especially now, with the war against terror, we need to follow the peaceful policies the Dalai Lama promotes."
All four men were arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage and were being questioned at Charing Cross police station, a police spokesman said.
Story filed: 08:59 Friday 9th May 2003
